GENERAL INFORMATION

Glittering like emeralds in the Bay of Bengal, Andaman is an archipelago situated in the east of Indian mainland. Tucked far away from the mainland area, Andaman is snugly nestled among evergreen forests. Andaman tour packages offer you an unforgettable experience in this heaven of calmness and serenity. Boasting of immensely rich flora and fauna, this archipelago truly is a gift of nature to humanity. These pristine islands are famous among tourists as an escapade from the humdrum of daily life, practically in the middle of nowhere. Among hundreds of islands of this archipelago, only a few are open for tourism. Family and honeymoon holidays in Andaman is equally memorable as much as it is enjoyable for backpackers. Havelock Islands are a major attraction among tourists exploring Andaman. Set against a backdrop of lush forests, Radhanagar Beach, Beach 5, Neil’s Cove and Kalapathar Beach are a few of those gems hidden in the treasure trove of Havelock. Holding significant historical importance, Ross Island is enveloped in dense forests. Ruins from the Victorian era can be found in every nook and cranny of Ross Island.

This used to be the administrative headquarters for the British in Andaman. Other attractions of Andaman include Cellular Jail National Memorial, Little Andaman Lighthouse, mud volcanoes of Baratang Island and Elephant Beach. Some of the top things to do with Andaman holiday packages include snorkeling, scuba diving, birdwatching and exploring the islands on a bicycle. The Andaman Islands offer one of the best scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities in all of South Asia. Lazing around on the white sands, taking in the breathtaking scenery and leisurely walks in this paradise of nature are also soul-stirring experiences. This remote union territory is accessible by air and sea. The capital city, Port Blair is well connected with major Indian cities by air. Passenger ships from Chennai, Visakhapatnam, and Kolkata to Port Blair are also available.

1. Beach Bumming

With such picturesque beaches as Corbyn’s Cove, Elephant, and Long Island, soaking up the sun should be priority number one in the Andaman. White sand, vast Bay of Bengal to look forward to and a pristine environment, there is nothing more you can ask for. you can laze around on any one of Andaman’s beaches for the whole day. They are so calm and beautiful all throughout the day that you wouldn’t want to leave the place for the whole day. Though the islands are popular destinations, the beaches are not crowded and you can find your own spot to sunbathe in.

2. Water Activities

Swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, banana boat rides, parasailing, underwater walking, jet skiing and what not. every water activity is sure to push that adrenaline rush to a yet another level. Not to mention dolphin watching; there are enough things to do on Andaman’s beaches to keep your adventurous mode always ON!!

3. Havelock Island

Home to one of Asia’s most beautiful beaches, Radhanagar Beach, the island is unbelievably scenic and a tranquil place to relax. The beach, popularly known as Beach No. 7, is largely quiet and only the waves breaking on the shore can be heard for the most part of the day. One can go snorkeling at Elephant Beach at Havelock Island. It is one of the most preferred snorkeling destinations after Jolly Bouy island in Port Blair.

4. Cellular Jail

Historically known as kaala paani (black water), the jail was used by the British to imprison political prisoners. The most famous freedom fighter to be imprisoned here was V.D. Savarkar. It’s always amazing to look into our non-independence era and this jail is one of the live examples that reminds us of the existence of that era. One can easily imagine the extremities the prisoners used to go through when they were put behind those iron bars in Kaala Paani. A visit to cellular jail is must if you are visiting Andaman and Nicobar islands.

5. Coral Reefs

Head to Jolly Buoy Island or Red Skin Island for the best view of the multicolored coral reefs that Andaman is famous for. It is always amazing to look at something from the last glacial period when the melting ice caused sea levels to rise and flood the continental shelves. Venturing into this geographical realm of Earth is another adventure altogether. The islands are open for tourists alternately for six months each.

6. Island Hopping

Neil Island of Havelock and Ross Island off Port Blair are pleasant half-day trips. Meander around the beaches of Neil Island and try to catch the sunrise or sunset or explore the Naval Museum, cemetery and ruins of old buildings on Ross Island. These islands are a paragon of beauty and they provide with a picturesque landscape shimmering like gems in the Bay of Bengal. You can experience all sorts of adventure activities on these islands.

7. Museum Trail

Port Blair houses some fantastic museums. The Anthropological Museum portrays the islands’ 4 Negrito tribes of Andamanese, the Jarawa, Sentinels and the ones; the Samudrika Marine Museum displays the biodiversity found on the islands. It is run by Indian navy in the Andaman province and the Forest Museum at Chatham Island (connected by a road bridge to Port Blair) houses a saw mill set up by the British.

8. Sea-Walking

One of the biggest attractions in Andaman is the underwater walk at North Bay Island and Havelock Island. You wear a helmet that lets you breathe normally and the walk brings you up close and personal with corals and fish. Imagine fishes hovering over your head and floating alongside when you are walking. The experience of a completely different ecosystem altogether. It’s truly an experience of a lifetime.

9. Birdwatching

Andaman’s bird island or Chidiya Tapu is a verdant spot with forests, mangroves and numerous species of birds. The constant chirruping of birds all through the day, birds in all colour, shapes and sizes flying from one tree to another finding food or just lazing around. Yes, birdwatching is one of the most amazing things you can do when you are in Andamans for a holiday if you are a true nature lover. Look out for parakeets, drongos, doves, eagles and much more birds that have made this island their home.

10. Trekking

You wouldn’t normally associate Andaman with trekking but Madhuban (20 kilometers from Port Blair by ferry) is the perfect spot for it. Lush green forests, several indigenous flora and fauna and breathtaking natural beauty make Madhuban an adventure seeker’s delight. The route from Madhuban to Mount Harriet (the highest peak in the archipelago) is the most popular. the zig-zag ways, the wooden bridges, thick forest cover all around you, this trekking demands attention.